Bioenergy Career Map: Policy Analyst Trainee

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Photo courtesy of Pressfoto.

The job of policy analyst trainee is an entry-level position in bioenergy, in the operations, management, and business career sub-sector. Job seekers with operations, management, and business backgrounds or students studying liberal arts could consider this type of entry-level bioenergy job.

Policy analyst trainees work under the supervision of higher-level staff analysts to prepare congressional testimony, briefing materials, summary statements, and speeches for senior executives, as appropriate, on bioenergy policies. People in these positions may hold internships or entry-level jobs in bioenergy policy analysis.

Policy Analyst Trainee

Alternate Title(s)Policy Researcher Trainee; Regulatory Affairs Trainee; Public Affairs Trainee; External Affairs Trainee; External Relations Trainee
Education & Training Level DescriptionBachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, or related field.
Experience0–3 years
Job Skills
  • Ability to identify key policy issues and make recommendations to senior management officials
  • Ability to develop and issue regulations, policy interpretation and guidelines
  • Demonstrated ability to represent positions effectively through oral and written communications.
Job ProfileIndividuals in this role research and monitor legislative, regulatory, and political activity relevant to the bioenergy sector. Policy analysts can explore complex problems, work to raise public awareness of important bioenergy issues, and recommend solutions to influence government action.
 
Policy analysts gather information, analyze potential policies and make recommendations, evaluate the outcomes of existing policies, and share information with the public and government officials. Policy analysts in the bioenergy sector work on either broad or specialized issues, depending on their organization and position. These analysts must react to proposed changes in law, regulations, and policies and respond to inquiries by government officials and the public.
 
At the entry level, policy analyst trainees work under the supervision of higher level staff analysts to prepare congressional testimony, briefing materials, summary statements and speeches for senior executives, as appropriate, on bioenergy policies. A bachelor’s degree in political science, law, or a related field is recommended. Equivalent experience or training may substitute for degree. Employers also value relevant experience gained through undergraduate capstone research projects, part time employment, internships, or volunteer work.